Courage met couture on the runway on Thursday 15 May, as The Show by Breast Cancer Now lit up London’s 8 Northumberland Avenue, with an unforgettable celebration of strength and style as 23 people affected by breast cancer took to the catwalk at the charity's annual fashion show.
The Show, by leading research and support charity Breast Cancer Now, brought together 23 models (21 women and 2 men), all living with or beyond a breast cancer diagnosis, to share their stories and strut the catwalk with confidence and purpose.
The models stepped out in personally styled looks to reflect their unique experiences and individuality. From vibrant colours to powerful silhouettes, the catwalk became a space of resilience, empowerment and visibility for people affected by breast cancer.
The Show was hosted by broadcaster and Breast Cancer Now ambassador Lisa Snowdon, whose grandmother died from breast cancer, and the catwalk looks were styled by celebrity stylist Rebekah Roy.
The Show isn’t just about fashion – it’s about community, confidence, and reclaiming parts of your identity after a breast cancer diagnosis. Every single model today brought their story and their power to the stage. It was truly inspiring, and I feel so honoured to be part of this very special event. The Show shines a spotlight on these incredible individuals’ stories in support of Breast Cancer Now and its incredible life-changing support and life-saving research, which is more needed than ever with an estimated 600,000 people alive in the UK after a diagnosis of breast cancer.
Lisa Snowdon
Breast Cancer Now ambassador and host of The Show
Reuben Board, who was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 52, was one of two male models taking part in The Show, representing one of around 400 men diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK.
Reuben said of his experience as a model in The Show:
“Since my own breast cancer diagnosis back in 2022, I am still shocked at the number of men that I talk to who don’t realise that they can get breast cancer too. By taking part in The Show, I’m hoping to raise greater awareness of breast cancer in men, plus, walking the catwalk has turned out to be a whole heap of fun!”
Jay Tatla, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018, aged 47, modelled and made a speech at the event to help raise awareness of breast cancer in the South Asian community.
Jay, speaking about why she is so passionate about raising awareness of breast cancer in the South Asian community, said:
“As a South Asian woman, I am acutely aware of the cultural taboos and stigmas that can surround breast cancer in certain communities. Although modelling is so far out my comfort zone, by taking part in The Show and stepping into the spotlight, I hope to break down these barriers and encourage open conversations about breast cancer.”
Faye Dickson was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019, aged 33, and walked the catwalk representing players of People’s Postcode Lottery, who have raised £14,738,682 for Breast Cancer Now’s specialist support and information services.
Walking the catwalk as People’s Postcode Lottery model has been a hugely emotional and empowering experience, it’s been amazing seeing so many people unite in support of Breast Cancer Now’s vital research and support. I’m so proud to share this moment with the other models who, like me, have had their lives affected by this devastating disease. The fashion show proves that breast cancer doesn't have to define you and that you can feel confident again, and look fabulous, living with or beyond a diagnosis.
Faye Dickson
This year's model representing the players of People’s Postcode Lottery
Some of this year's models in The Show
The Show was supported by some of the beauty industry’s biggest names, with Estée Lauder providing makeup and ghd styling hair, ensuring every model looked and felt their best. Fashion and celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson posted behind-the-scenes content on the day.
This year during the event, the charity shone a spotlight on breast cancer research, and the impact it can have on the thousands of people diagnosed with breast cancer every year.
The Show wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of many amazing brands, including Breast Cancer Now’s dedicated corporate partners: Ann Summers, George at Asda, Karen Millen, M&S, Pom Pom London and Primark.
To watch the event online or relive the highlights of the night, visit breastcancernow.org/theshowlondon or follow @breastcancernow on Instagram for exclusive coverage.
